Car Key Repair Tips
With the right advice fixing your car keys is easy. You can avoid a variety of issues by keeping your keys and lock cylinder well-lubricated.
Use a needle-nose pliers to remove the damaged piece of key from your ignition cylinder before calling a locksmith or a dealer. Be remote car key repairs and patient to avoid causing more damage.
1. Knock on the ignition key
You're at the petrol station, picking up groceries or just headed home after a long day when you insert your car keys in the ignition and it doesn't turn. It can be very frustrating, especially if you're already behind on your appointment.
There are a variety of things that can go wrong with your car keys. Fortunately, the majority of these problems are easily solved. First, check to see if the key is in fact stuck. It's not uncommon for people to mistakenly take the wrong key off the table or their keychain however, if the keys is snugly inserted into the cylinder and isn't dirty or loose, it should be able for you to start your car.
Make sure to turn the key a few times within the ignition, taking care not to damage it with too much force or pressure. If it still doesn't work try using graphite lubricant. Spray the lubricant inside the cylinder, insert the key and then take it out several times more to spread the lubricant over the cylinder.
If you're unable to start your vehicle, it might be time to change the key. If the key's teeth are worn, they'll be unable to engage the pins on the cylinder. A new key isn't expensive, and it will be worth the investment if you're constantly getting your car key stuck in the ignition.
If the gear selector is set to "P" (park), this may also stop the car from starting. In this case you'll need to examine the shift lever to ensure that it's in the proper position for turning the key. If you are not confident in repairing the issue yourself, have a trusted professional at an AutoZone store identify and repair the issue.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch might be stuck, is preventing it from turning. If this is the case you can apply pressure using an screwdriver and check whether it moves. If not, you'll have to replace it.
Another reason your key might not turn is that it's not the right key for your car. This is a blunder that many people make, but it's not difficult to repair. Check that the key is the right type and hasn't been damaged due to being dropped or damaged.
If you are certain that the key is working make sure to lubricate it in order to eliminate any dirt particles that may be preventing it from turning. It is best to make use of a silicone-based lubricant because this will stop dirt from accumulating and obstructing the keyhole. If this doesn't work, the key cylinder might be clogged or worn out. If this is the case, you will have to replace the lock's cylinder, or have a new key made.
You might also try spraying a little oil into the keyhole and gently jiggling it. This will loosen any dirt that could be hindering the key from entering the lock cylinder, so it's worth a try.
It's time to change the battery if you haven't done it in a while. It's simple to replace the battery in modern fobs. You just need to break the two halves with the help of a screwdriver, and then remove the old one. Then, you can insert the new one the same way and test it.
Ace Hardware is the place to go if you require a new car key. In remote car key repairs to traditional keys and key fobs, you'll find a wide assortment of automobile accessories and maintenance tools, too.
3. Check the Selector of the Gear Selector
When it concerns your car having a spare key is an excellent idea. After all, you never know when you'll lose your primary key or lock it inside the vehicle. A spare key can help you get back on the road quicker, and it can also save you money in the long run. In the past, you could get an extra key cut at the local hardware store or even the department for auto parts at your dealership. Today, however it's usually more cost-effective and convenient to have an extra key cut by an automotive locksmith.
Take routine maintenance seriously to keep your Mercedes Benz running at its top performance. This means taking your vehicle in for regular servicing and taking care of your driving habits. This includes ensuring that you always come to a complete stop before shifting gears, and following the correct method when engaging the drive-away feature.
Another important aspect of taking care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of issues with the bushing for the gear selector. This small part is vital for the automatic transmission and plays a crucial part in ensuring you get the most performance from your vehicle. If you notice it's becoming more difficult to switch gears or your car is beginning to struggle to translate your actions into the transmission, it's an indication that the selector bushing is in need of replacement.
If your keys are beginning to wear out or stop working, it's an ideal idea to make a spare. It may be a hassle, but it's better than having your vehicle stolen or locked in the trunk.
4. Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob has a short life and will eventually need to be replaced. The ignition system in a car depends on the fob's battery to transmit signals to the key cylinder.
It could be time to replace the key fob if its buttons aren't working anymore. A new battery can bring back the functionality of the key's button functions. It is crucial to make sure that the new battery is placed correctly. To do this, carefully open the keyfob with a flat-headed screwdriver or coin, and then check the old battery to make sure it's placed correctly. The battery should resemble an actual coin and include a plus and minus sign. Insert the new battery in the same way as the original one to prevent any damage.
A misalignment in the tumblers of the key cylinder is one common issue that prevents the ignition key from turning. A gentle tapping of the key with a rubber mallet or the handle of a screwdriver could realign these tumblers and allow the key to turn.
The key cylinder can also become gummed up or stuck in time. A small amount of penetrating lubricant can help to eliminate any obstructions, and help improve the key's movement inside the lock cylinder. It is recommended to use silicone spray or graphite lubricant when trying to solve this problem. If the issue persists, it may be a serious issue with the ignition switch. A qualified auto technician should inspect the switch with care if this is the case. Repairing this part without proper training could lead to additional damage and costly repairs. This is why it's essential to enlist the services of an experienced and licensed professional auto locksmith.
5. Examine the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a complex piece of machinery that, when operating correctly, makes sure that the key fits snugly into the ignition socket and allows the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. Inability to turn a car key can be a frustrating. It could be due to mechanical issues such as a steering lock, an electronic component that has failed and prevents theft, or electrical issues, like a power failure or a battery that is dead. This issue should be addressed immediately to avoid further problems like being stuck and having to pay for costly repairs. It also helps ensure that the car is reliable and secure.
A car key that doesn't turn on the ignition typically indicates underlying issues with either the key or the ignition switch. Luckily, there are several practical solutions to fix the issue. Clean the ignition cylinder and remove any obstructions by turning your steering wheel, examining the position of the gear selector, checking the key and possibly replacing it, examining the voltage and checking the key. These simple solutions can resolve many of the common issues and allow you to get back on the road in no time.
In rare instances, it may be necessary to realign the ignition cylinder to restore normal operation. Fortunately, locksmiths who are professionals and mechanics have the necessary skills and tools that are specifically designed to accomplish this delicate job. This process involves meticulously altering the internal components of the cylinder, making sure that they are properly aligned, allowing the key to fit into and turn smoothly in the ignition. This can extend the life of your ignition system, and help maintain optimal performance. If you have a spare key, try using it to determine if the problem is related to the key that was originally used or the ignition cylinder.